Advanced Rehabilitation
ULTRASOUND IMAGING
Precision imaging performed by our Doctors of Physical Therapy -
giving you real-time insight into your injury so we can create the most targeted treatment plan possible.
WHAT IS ULTRASOUND IMAGING?
Musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging is a non-invasive technology that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and some joints. Unlike X-rays, ultrasound does not use radiation.
Our Doctors of Physical Therapy are trained in point-of-care ultrasound, allowing them to visualize what’s happening in your body during your visit—not days later—so your care can be more precise and individualized.
Whether you’re dealing with ongoing symptoms or simply wondering why something doesn’t feel quite right, this tool can provide valuable insight into what may be contributing to your discomfort. We use it to better understand how your tissues are responding, compare to other areas of your body, guide treatment decisions, and track your progress over time.
Your Visit
WHAT TO EXPECT
01
EVALUATION & ASSESSMENT
Your Doctor of Physical Therapy begins with a thorough movement and functional assessment to identify the area of concern and determine whether ultrasound imaging will enhance your diagnosis.
02
REAL-TIME IMAGING
A small handheld probe is placed on the skin over the area of interest. You'll see your own tissues displayed live on screen. The process is painless, quick, and requires no special preparation.
03
TARGETED TREATMENT PLAN
Using the imaging findings, your therapist builds a highly personalized plan—combining targeted exercise, manual therapy, and education—designed specifically for your injury and your goals.
Applications
CONDITIONS WE CAN ASSESS & TREAT
Ultrasound imaging can provide valuable diagnostic clarity for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Rotator Cuff Tears - Bursitis
- Tendinitis / Tendinopathy - Hip Flexor Issues
- Shoulder Impingement - Hamstring Injuries
- Achilles Tendon Issues - IT Band Syndrome
- Patellar Tendonitis - Plantar Fasciitis
- Tennis / Golfer's Elbow - Calf / Soleus Strains
- Muscle Strains & Tears - Joint Effusion
- Ligament Sprains
Why It Matters
BENEFITS OF ULTRASOUND IMAGING
IMPROVE ACCURACY
Visualize the exact structure causing your pain — not just where it hurts, but precisely what's injured and how severely.
FAST REAL-TIME RESULTS
No waiting days for imaging reports. Your therapist reviews findings with you immediately and begins your care plan the same visit.
SAFE & NON-INVASIVE
No radiation, no needles, no contrast agents. Ultrasound is completely safe for all patients, including pregnant women and children.
TRACK YOUR PROGRESS
Repeat imaging at follow-up visits shows objective evidence of tissue healing — keeping you motivated and your plan on track.
Real Patient Imaging
SEE THE DIFFERENCE
Actual musculoskeletal images images from patients - see comparison of uninvolved side
ROTATOR CUFF - INFRASPINATUS TENDON
Bright (echogenic) = healthy, organized tissue
Dark (hypoechoic) = disruption, fluid, or damage
Frequently Asked Questions
COMMON QUESTIONS
- Is ultrasound imaging the same as what's done in a hospital? Musculoskeletal ultrasound used in physical therapy is point-of-care imaging focused specifically on muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and joints. It uses the same safe sound-wave technology but is performed and interpreted by your Doctor of Physical Therapy during your appointment for immediate clinical decision-making.
- Do you need a referral? No! Thanks to Direct Access, you can come directly to Healthy Body Physical Therapy without a referral or prescription. You can start your ultrasound imaging evaluation — as soon as availability allows.
- Does it hurt? Do I need to prepare anything? Ultrasound imaging is completely painless. A small amount of water-based gel is applied to your skin to help conduct the sound waves, and the probe is gently moved over the area. No special preparation is required — just wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being evaluated.
- Does it hurt? Do I need to prepare anything? Ultrasound imaging is completely painless. A small amount of water-based gel is applied to your skin to help conduct the sound waves, and the probe is gently moved over the area. No special preparation is required — just wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being evaluated.
Does ultrasound imaging replace MRI? Ultrasound and MRI are complementary tools with different strengths. Ultrasound excels at dynamic, real-time assessment of soft tissues and is far more accessible and affordable. For some conditions, it provides all the clinical information needed. In other cases, your therapist may recommend an MRI referral for deeper structures such as bone or cartilage.
Does my insurance cover this? - We can not bill Musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging for insurance coverage. This is a highly specialized procedure performed by very few clinicians. We offer transparent self-pay rates and our team will walk you through pricing before your visit. Give us a call at 704-625-6191 and we'll be happy to answer any questions.